Former Manchester City striker Jô knows he is not guaranteed a place in the Atlético Mineiro team

Former Manchester City striker Jô is aware that he is not guaranteed a starting place in the Atlético Mineiro team this season and will have to work hard to impress coach Cuca.

Jô, 25, joined Atlético in May 2012 after a disappointing spell with Internacional but quickly became an important part of the Belo Horizonte team’s attack, scoring 10 goals as they finished as runners-up in the Brasileirão.

“Despite it being the beginning of the season, we're playing well,” he told Globo Esporte.

“But earlier this year, I spoke at my first interview that nobody has their place in the team set here, everyone has to work hard knowing we have quality players, who are also working to play.”

Jô started his career with Corinthians before moving to Russian side CSKA Moscow in 2005. He had a successful time with CSKA and, in 2008, he moved to Manchester City, under manager Mark Hughes, for £19 million.

However, he failed to live up to expectations in Manchester and was quickly moved out on loan, twice to Everton and then to Galatasaray in 2010 before moving back to Brazil permanently with Internacional in 2011.

“Of course Cuca is testing various options in order to be prepared for the championships.

“And as the year goes on, we'll know which is fitting for the best training,” he added.